The reflection I shared last week was from the first part of the story of “The Request of James and John,” who wanted to be sitting at the places of honor at Jesus’ right and left. James and John believed since they were some of Jesus’ closest friends, they would be great in the kingdom of God if they were sitting with Jesus.
Let’s look at the second half of the story after the other ten disciples became indignant with James and John.
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” –Mark 10:42-45 (NIV)
What did Jesus say makes one great?
To be a servant of all!
Who is the greatest servant that ever lived?
The Son of Man, who is Jesus!
What is the role of a servant that Jesus’ life modeled?
To put the needs of others first, before their own.
To care about the well-being of others.
To help set people free from bondage.
To share God’s love rather than dominating in power.
Photo courtesy of Sharon Tate Soberon under Creative Commons License (CC BY-ND 2.0)
What are some ways Jesus served others?
Providing wine for the wedding guests. (John 2:1-11)
Jesus did not want the people hosting the wedding party to be caught in the serious offense of not having enough drink for the feast that could last up to a week.
Healing the blind, the lame, and the lepers. (John 9:1-12)
Jesus noticed those in need as He walked this earth. He often healed people, both spiritually and physically, which reflected God’s glory.
Providing food when the crowds were hungry. (Mark 8:1-13)
Jesus’ compassion for the large crowd, who gathered for three days to listen to Him, was apparent with His concern if they did not have anything to eat, they would collapse on their walk home.
Extending love and compassion to the adulteress. (John 8:1-11)
Jesus shared love and compassion with the woman the teachers of the law and Pharisees brought to Him. They were trying to condemn her. Jesus knew we are all sinners and encouraged this woman to leave her life of sin because of His love for her.
What was the ultimate way Jesus served all humankind?
By giving up His life and dying on the cross, paying the ransom for our sins, despite being sinless!
A Google search for the definition of servant says: “One that serves others.”
Jesus showed us that serving others is a way of life. Our lives should be characterized by humble and loving service to all those we encounter. We must be willing to serve others, without reserve, if we want to be great in the kingdom of God.
This quote from the Italian movie, Life is Beautiful, gives us more insight into thoughts about serving:
“Think of a sunflower, they bow to the sun. But if you see some that are bowed too far down, it means they’re dead. You’re here serving, you’re not a servant. Serving is the supreme art. God is the first of servants. God serves men, but he’s not a servant to men.”
When we serve others, we are not doing it as slaves. Instead, our serving should be from a heart of love and compassion. Serving others is a special privilege we have as strive to emulate the greatest servant. How interesting it is to think of God as the first servant. Indeed, God lovingly serves us by creating a beautiful world full of nature, animals, and people we can enjoy. He also served us through His plan of redemption.
Photo courtesy of Lewis_Satini under Creative Commons License (CC BY 2.0)
Take time to reflect on…
- In what ways do you serve others daily?
- Are there special ministries through which you serve others?
- How many times do you want to be served rather than serving others?
- Is your heart full of love and compassion as you serve?
- How willing are you to serve others through the ultimate act as Jesus did?
But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. –1 Samuel 12:24 (NIV)
Dear Christine. Chapter 7 should be a daily commitment . I will strive to help someone smile or hopefully laugh everyday. Thanks again for your friendship. Have a Great day. Pat
Pat~Thank you so much for reading and taking the time to comment. I appreciate knowing how, Kindness Matters, from my second book, God’s Love Illuminated, resonated with you! Thank you for the daily commitment challenge to show kindness. I must say, you are all set for today’s challenge! I smiled when I received your comment this morning as I marvel at God’s goodness. 🙂 I need to share that every time I am at church with you and Uncle Pete, you both extend kindness to me. You make me smile and feel like part of the family! You both are a joy to be around. I leave with a smile on my face and joy in my heart. God bless~